Toot and Puddle are back in a brand new adventure in I'll Be Home for Christmas by Holly Hobbie. Toot is in Edinburgh at a family reunion. His Great-Great Aunt Peg has just turned 100 years old! Christmas is just days away, but he has promised Puddle that he will be home in time to share the holiday.

Back in Woodcock Pocket, Puddle eagerly prepares for Christmas and Toot's arrival. With the assistance of his feathery friend, Tulip, the pair have pulled out all the stops to celebrate in style. The only thing that's missing is Toot.

Suddenly, a dangerous ice storm hits Edinburgh. All flights are delayed. Will Toot miss spending Christmas with his best friend?

I adore this book! Hobbie's story is full of cheer and heart. Her classic Toot and Puddle characters truly shine in this heartwarming tale. I absolutely love the humor that is sprinkled throughout the story. From calling Great-Great Aunt Peg an "ancient aunt" to the gift of a "lucky nut," I found myself laughing out loud several times while reading.

Another aspect of the story that I love is how the story toggles between Toot's journey homeward and Puddle's Christmas preparations. Starting off the book with a postcard is such a fun and unique idea. I also like how Hobbie leaves room for the imagination. I don't want to give anything away, but pay close attention to the ending.

Hobbie's illustrations are gorgeous. Toot and Puddle could not be any cuter. She really makes the scenes come alive with the use of warm colors for Puddle's story and cool colors for Toot's story. Hobbie also keeps things fresh by alternating between sing page illustrations, multiple vignettes, and double page spreads.